"Red Mouth Headstander"
Anostomus ternetzi

Description

Anostomus ternetzi, commonly known as the “Red Mouth Head Stander”, is a peaceful and interesting freshwater fish species native to South America. Here’s a summarized care sheet for Anostomus ternetzi:

Max Size:
– The maximum size for Anostomus ternetzi (Red Mouth Head Stander) is around 5-6 inches (12-15 centimeters) in length.

General Care:
– Red Mouth Head Standers are active and social fish, often kept in groups.
– They are a peaceful species but can be fin nippers, especially if not kept in proper conditions or if they feel stressed.

Tank Requirements:
– Tank size: A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended for a small group of Red Mouth Head Standers.
– Filtration: Use a reliable filter to maintain water quality and provide gentle water flow.
– Water parameters: Temperature 72-82°F (22-28°C), pH 6.0-7.5, hardness 2-15 dGH.
– Substrate: Use sand or fine gravel as the substrate.

Feeding:
– Red Mouth Head Standers are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods.
– Offer high-quality flakes or pellets as the staple diet.
– Supplement their diet with vegetable matter such as blanched spinach or lettuce, as well as live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms.

Tankmates:
– They are generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful fish of similar size and temperament.
– Avoid keeping them with smaller fish that may be seen as potential prey.

Decor and Environment:
– Provide plenty of swimming space and open areas for the Red Mouth Head Standers to move around comfortably.
– Use driftwood, rocks, and plants to create hiding spots and provide a natural-looking environment.

Water Maintenance:
– Perform regular water changes (20-25% weekly) to maintain water quality and remove waste.
– Monitor water parameters frequently to ensure they are within the recommended range.

Behavior:
– Red Mouth Head Standers are active swimmers and will occasionally swim upside down, as the name suggests.
– They may nibble on plants, so choose robust plants or provide floating vegetation.

Healthcare:
– Quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank to prevent disease transmission.
– Observe for any signs of illness or stress and address issues promptly.

Observation and Enjoyment:
– Spend time observing and enjoying the unique behavior and social interactions of Red Mouth Head Standers.
– Create a peaceful and well-maintained environment to ensure their well-being.

By providing the appropriate tank size and meeting the specific care requirements, you can create a suitable and healthy environment for Red Mouth Head Standers, ensuring they thrive and display their best behavior in captivity.

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